If you know how the IELTS speaking test is
scored, you will understand that pronunciation is one of the four marking
criteria, and it counts for 25% of your speaking score. It is of course important
to work on your pronunciation for the test.
You may be asking: how can I improve my pronunciation?
There is no quick fix on improving
pronunciation and a lot of teachers may answer ‘Speak more.’ However, this is
not a very good answer because you need to know the best tactics to practise in
order to get maximum results.
This article will help you:
·
Learn HOW to improve your pronunciation
·
EASY TRICKS to speak better instantly
TIP NUMBER 1 – Get Everything Prepared
When we talk about preparation, it is not
just about trying to prepare for possible answers. It is important to know a
few other things.
First,
understand the structure of the speaking test. How much time does the test
take? How many parts are there to the speaking test? What is each part of the
test about? Or do I have to give a speech, or have a discussion with the
examiner?
Second,
learn how the IELTS speaking exam is scored.
If you want to get a higher band score, you
will need to know what the examiner wants! In short, pronunciation, fluency and
coherence, grammar and vocabulary all count for 25% of the score.
Finally, yes, you will never know what
questions you will be asked in the speaking test, but there are some common
topics that you can prepare for, such as family, work, and travel.
Remember, do NOT memorise your prepared
answers for the test. Why not? When the examiner finds out you are not actually
speaking naturally, you may not get a high score or you may even lose marks.
And, believe me, they will know!
What can I do to avoid having to memorise
answers then? You may ask yourself.
Well, you can still learn more vocabulary
and phrases of commonly asked topics by simply practising more frequently. This
will allow you to get better at using the vocabulary! But speak naturally!
Another simple way to improve your speaking
is to arrive early and not get stressed
out.
Many speaking tests do not take place right
after the other test components of the IELTS exam.
You may even be asked to come on a separate
day to take the speaking test only.
If you are told that your speaking exam is
on a separate day, it is very important that you arrive at the test venue at
least 30 to 40 minutes before your speaking test appointment time.
In this way, you will have plenty of time
to calm yourself down and be mentally prepared.
TIP NUMBER 2 – Speak Naturally
Learn
how not to feel nervous in front of the examiner.
By being more relaxed, you can enjoy a normal conversation with the examiner
and speak naturally.
Don’t rush, it is always better to speak
clearly rather than rush through your speech. By speaking naturally, you will
be able to show your emotions when you speak and improve the rhythm of your
speech.
TIP NUMBER 3 – Think And Speak In Chunks
A common problem students have when taking
the speaking test is they translate every word in their head before saying it
out loud. So it sounds like they pause after every word which affects their
pronunciation score.
To help improve the intonation of speech
and sentence stresses, try to use the ‘Chunking’
technique. Chunking is talking in rhythm by grouping the words, with short
silences in between or change in tone.
For example, when you say this sentence,
don’t say it like this:
“Last – year – was – the – best – year – of
– my – life.”
Say it like this: “LAST year // was the BEST year // of my LIFE.”
Can you see the difference? So think and
speak in chunks.
You will speak more naturally in chunks of
words with better pronunciation and intonation. This will help the examiner
understand your messages much better and clearer.
